Each year, the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) organizes and coordinates Renewal & Remembrance, the largest landscape volunteer project in the United States. The event is aimed at paying homage to America's fallen hero's by maintaining Arlington National Cemetery (ANC). At this year's event, volunteers began their day with the opening ceremony, which included remarks by ANC Superintendent Katharine Kelley, an invocation, a presentation of the colors by a Navy color guard, and a number of moving speeches about the importance of service and remembrances of the men and women buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

New to the event this year was the installation of a hardscape project near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This was in addition to: applying limestone and phosphorous to turf, aerating turf grass to strengthen its underground root systems, inspecting and installing irrigation systems to optimize watering practices, installing supportive cabling systems to protect trees from lightning and storm damage, and installing pavers for a new ADA-accessible plaza area.

For the last 21 years the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) has honored America's fallen heroes by planning and organizing, Renewal & Remembrance, the largest landscape industry volunteer project in the United States.

"The event is normally held at Arlington National Cemetery," said Lisa Schaumann-Stryker, director of communications, NALP. "This year however, at the request of ANC, teams of volunteers were made available so work could also be completed at the United States Soldiers' and Airmen's Home National Cemetery in Washington, D.C."

The Renewal and Remembrance committee, made up of NALP members, planned and executed the event. Over 400 volunteers participated. The July weather gave volunteers and NALP members a taste of Washington's infamous humidity. All of the liming, aerating, performing tree protection, landscaping and irrigation, was done on a pro bono basis.

"Through their willingness to donate their time, talents, equipment and materials, our members make this tremendous event possible year after year," said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs, NALP. "As an association, we are humbled and honored to come together at Arlington National Cemetery to pay our respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom."